Portrait photography, as anything in this world, undergoes constant evolution. The times change, the reality changes and so do we. Initially portraits photos were very stiff, everyone was posed in similar fashion, lighting was very predictable, and the photo retouching possibilities was quite limited. It was as if people were afraid to come out with their ideas.

model: Eccaia

Ever since photography went digital, a whole new set of options become available, including complex photo manipulations and composite photography. Combine this with modern 3D model rendering and digital painting, and the options become literally unlimited. I am in love with what modern technology offers to us artists, and I am embracing it completely. If you follow my blogs or social media you know how much I stress the importance of photo editing. It is yet another tool for delivering and executing my artistic vision.

100% crop - head details

I treat every photo shoot very personally. I try to bond emotionally and understand anyone who appears in front of my lens. I seek the connection between the scene, personality, mood, light,colors, etc. It is all relevant, but only when seen as one, just like puzzle elements. Photoshop allows me for building on top of what I have captured, and I can tell you that I am one of those very few photographers who will never say "I prefer to be out shooting than sitting at my computer inside photoshop". They have no idea how insanely helpful photo retouching can be in improving the quality of one's photography. I cannot stress enough the importance of details in any type o photography. In portraiture, a simple gesture or misplaced shadow can ruin the entire photo. If you shoot without stopping to think about it, you will never catch those nuances.

100% crop - body details

Now, photo manipulation goes far beyond any conventional portrait photography. Not to mention it is so much fun I can completely disappear for a week while working on a single image. The shot you see above took me nearly 40h inside photoshop. Attention to details and is essential. All of my images are impeccable on pixel level, and I often work zoomed in more than 200% into the image to make sure I get things not just right, but perfect. You can watch this video to see how I created this artwork (below), or any other of my photoshop manipulation and digital art and high-end portrait retouching speed art videos on my YouTube channel.

I love fantasy and science fiction themes, and you can view some of the examples of my photoshop manipulation on my portfolio. All concepts are original and I do not model myself on any images found on the net or art books. I become inspired by situations, thoughts, shared ideas, or even computer games, but I never copy anything. Just like my Chinese characters tattoo designs my photoshop manipulations stay fresh and unique. In the near future I have plans on including calligraphy in my cyber manipulations.

If you are interested in having your photo manipulated please contact me directly. For photoshop manipulations that include a photoshoot, please bear in mind that I am a photographer in Tokyo area, but will consider shoots outside Japan. Prices of my photoshop manipulation and composite photography service vary, depending on the complexity of the image and type of work (commercial or private use). Please mail me directly to inquire for details.

Complete portfolio in full resolution: http://ponte-ryuurui-photography.smugmug.com/Portfolio